*Cites “toxic” political environment
By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections-turned chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Peter Obi, has explained the circumstances surrounding his decision to leave ADC, citing what he described as a “toxic” political environment and increasing internal crises.
Obi began his political rise in 2003 under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), serving as Anambra State governor from 2005 until 2014. In 2014, he joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and became running mate to Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 election where they, under the PDP banner, lost the presidential election to late President Muhammadu Buhari.
In 2022, Obi moved to the Labour Party (LP), contesting the 2023 presidency but lost to President Bola Tinubu with a very impressive result.
In December 2025, he aligned with the ADC and it has been reported that he is heading to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) amid opposition realignments ahead of 2027.
In a reflective message shared on Sunday via his official X handle, Obi said his decision was not driven by personal grievances against key party leaders, including David Mark, whom he described as “highly respected,” or Atiku Abubakar, whom he referred to as a leader and elder.
“My decision to leave the ADC is not because Senator David Mark treated me badly, nor because Alhaji Atiku Abubakar or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me. I will continue to respect them,” he stated.
Obi, however, alleged that the same systemic challenges that plagued his former party, the Labour Party Nigeria, were beginning to manifest within the ADC.
According to him, “the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party… now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division.”
He decried what he called a growing culture of intimidation, insecurity, and discouragement within the political space, noting that individuals who strive to serve sincerely often face undue pressure and criticism.
“We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the very system that should protect and create opportunities… often works against the people,” Obi said.
The former presidential candidate also expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of solidarity, alleging that some associates distance themselves or join in criticism despite public alignment.
“Humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness,” he added.
Despite his exit, Obi reiterated his commitment to Nigeria’s progress, stressing that his ambition is not driven by a quest for political office but by a desire to see improvements in citizens’ welfare and national security.
“I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed,” he said.
Obi maintained that he remains hopeful about Nigeria’s future, insisting that “a new Nigeria is possible” if leadership is anchored on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity.
It is believed that Obi is forming a strong alliance with the former governor of Kano State, Engr. Ibrahim Kwankwaso. With Obi as candidate and Kwankwaso as running mate, political analysts believe that Obident Movement and Kwankwasiyya group are formidable team to unseat Tinubu in 2027.
